Definition

A person who is given a job or position in the government, often because of political connections rather than merit.

Example

The placeman was criticized for his lack of qualifications for the role he held in the government.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new placeman they appointed to the council?

Yeah, I read something about it; seems like quite a controversial choice.

Right? It feels like they just picked someone for their connections.

Exactly, it's frustrating when merit doesn't seem to matter.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Placeman → It is formed from "place" (from Old French *place*, meaning a position or location) and "-man" (meaning a person). The word refers to a person who holds a position or is placed in a specific role.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'place' where someone is 'positioned' — that's what a placeman is, a person in a specific role.

Visually Confused Words